Abstract: A mobile device with an underwater communications system is provided that transmits electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter includes a data input. A digital data compressor compresses data to be transmitted. A modulator modulates compressed data onto a carrier signal. An electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna transmits the compressed, modulated signals. The receiver that has an electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna for receiving a compressed, modulated signal. A demodulator is provided for demodulating the signal to reveal compressed data. A de-compressor de-compresses the data. An appropriate human interface is provided to present transmitted data into text/audio/visible form. Similarly, the transmit system comprises appropriate audio/visual/text entry mechanisms. The portable device may be wearable.

Abstract: Taps on a beam-interrupt button of an underwater signaling transceiver are encoded as binary frequency shift-key modulated Golay codes, which are transmitted via 56-58 kHz compression waves generated by a ring-shaped electromechanical transducer. Light emitting diodes flash to signal the content of received signals and provide monitoring of the distance between divers. All components of the transceiver—except outer portions of input/output leads and a suction cup for attaching to the transceiver to a diver's mask—are completely encased in transparent plastic. The input/output leads allow an internal battery to be recharged, provide access to the internal processor for programming and data retrieval, and monitor whether the transceiver is submerged so that the transceiver can operate in an underwater mode or an above-water mode. Transceivers only communicate with other transceivers which use the same communication channel.

Abstract: An underwater communications system is provided that transmits electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter includes a data input. A digital data compressor compresses data to be transmitted. A modulator modulates compressed data onto a carrier signal. An electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna transmits the compressed, modulated signals. The receiver that has an electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna for receiving a compressed, modulated signal. A demodulator is provided for demodulating the signal to reveal compressed data. A de-compressor de-compresses the data. An appropriate human interface is provided to present transmitted data into text/audio/visible form. Similarly, the transmit system comprises appropriate audio/visual/text entry mechanisms.

Abstract: An underwater communications system is provided that transmits electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter includes a data input. A digital data compressor compresses data to be transmitted. A modulator modulates compressed data onto a carrier signal. An electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna transmits the compressed, modulated signals. The receiver that has an electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna for receiving a compressed, modulated signal. A demodulator is provided for demodulating the signal to reveal compressed data. A de-compressor de-compresses the data. An appropriate human interface is provided to present transmitted data into text/audio/visible form. Similarly, the transmit system comprises appropriate audio/visual/text entry mechanisms.

Abstract: An underwater communications system is provided that transmits electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter includes a data input. A digital data compressor compresses data to be transmitted. A modulator modulates compressed data onto a carrier signal. An electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna transmits the compressed, modulated signals. The receiver that has an electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna for receiving a compressed, modulated signal. A demodulator is provided for demodulating the signal to reveal compressed data. A de-compressor de-compresses the data. An appropriate human interface is provided to present transmitted data into text/audio/visible form. Similarly, the transmit system comprises appropriate audio/visual/text entry mechanisms.

Abstract: An underwater communications system is provided that transmits electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter includes a data input. A digital data compressor compresses data to be transmitted. A modulator modulates compressed data onto a carrier signal. An electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna transmits the compressed, modulated signals. The receiver that has an electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna for receiving a compressed, modulated signal. A demodulator is provided for demodulating the signal to reveal compressed data. A de-compressor de-compresses the data. An appropriate human interface is provided to present transmitted data into text/audio/visible form. Similarly, the transmit system comprises appropriate audio/visual/text entry mechanisms.

Abstract: An underwater communications system is provided that transmits electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter includes a data input. A digital data compressor compresses data to be transmitted. A modulator modulates compressed data onto a carrier signal. An electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna transmits the compressed, modulated signals. The receiver that has an electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna for receiving a compressed, modulated signal. A demodulator is provided for demodulating the signal to reveal compressed data. A de-compressor de-compresses the data. An appropriate human interface is provided to present transmitted data into text/audio/visible form. Similarly, the transmit system comprises appropriate audio/visual/text entry mechanisms.

Abstract: This invention relates to immersed moving bodies for which the activity requires knowledge of their absolute geographic coordinates. This is the case particularly for moving bodies performing site survey operations, excavations and more generally exploration operations. A moving body can equally well refer to an independent diver, a manned vehicle or an unmanned machine. The device is used by an immersed moving body for independent determination of its absolute geographic coordinates. The device, according to the invention comprises on board calculation means (31) associated with “surface” position means (32) consisting of a GPS or GALILEO type receiver, submarine positioning means (33) operating on the principle of homing in association with immersed fixed acoustic beacon (41) and a set of sensors (36) that the moving body (42) uses to determine its working depth, its horizontality, and the difference between the direction followed and a fixed direction, for example magnetic north.

Abstract: A project calculator, including a housing, a circuit board mounted within the housing and including a processor, an input device connected to the circuit board and interfacing with the processor, an output device connected to the circuit board and interfacing with the processor, and a distance sensor rotatably mounted to the housing and interfacing with the processor. A laser assembly is may also be rotatably mounted to the housing and configured to provide a visual indicator to an object to which the distance sensor is pointing. One or more level indicators may also be mounted to the housing.

Abstract: An underwater communications system is provided that transmits electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter includes a data input. A digital data compressor compresses data to be transmitted. A modulator modulates compressed data onto a carrier signal. An electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna transmits the compressed, modulated signals. The receiver that has an electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna for receiving a compressed, modulated signal. A demodulator is provided for demodulating the signal to reveal compressed data. A de-compressor de-compresses the data. An appropriate human interface is provided to present transmitted data into text/audio/visible form. Similarly, the transmit system comprises appropriate audio/visual/text entry mechanisms.

Abstract: An underwater communications system is provided that transmits electromagnetic and/or magnetic signals to a remote receiver. The transmitter includes a data input. A digital data compressor compresses data to be transmitted. A modulator modulates compressed data onto a carrier signal. An electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna transmits the compressed, modulated signals. The receiver that has an electrically insulated, magnetic coupled antenna for receiving a compressed, modulated signal. A demodulator is provided for demodulating the signal to reveal compressed data. A de-compressor de-compresses the data. An appropriate human interface is provided to present transmitted data into text/audio/visible form. Similarly, the transmit system comprises appropriate audio/visual/text entry mechanisms.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing information about a three-dimensional environment to a user includes; a handle, at least one sensor operatively coupled to the handle, a tactile pad disposed on the handle, a plurality of tactile buttons arrayed on the tactile pad, a plurality of actuators, wherein each actuator is operatively coupled to one of the plurality of tactile buttons to control a height thereof in relation to the tactile pad, and a processor which receives signals from the at least one sensor and controls positioning of the plurality of actuators to represent a physical environment sensed by the at least one sensor.

Abstract: Signalling and localisation device for an individual in the sea, including an ultrasonic wave transmitter constituting an individual alarm unit carried by the individual in the sea designed to transmit carrier waves of primary signals; a surface surveillance means arranged on the surface of the sea and provided with: a submersed antenna capable of picking up the primary signals transmitted by individual alarm unit; means of transmitting secondary ultrasonic signals, these transmission means: means capable of calculating the position of individual alarm unit as a function of the ultrasonic signals received in response to secondary ultrasonic signals and of converting this information into the coordinates of a global positioning system; a unit for transmitting radio waves capable of sending signals representing these coordinates to a mobile or fixed alarm processing centre equipped with a radio receiver.

Abstract: The present invention is concerned with an underwater communication device, that is simple in design, in operation, powered solely from the hand against the resistance of a spring or elastic band, is low maintenance, is resistant to accidental sound generation, offers a wide margin of safety, reliability, and enables audible communication. The present invention is concerned with a device containing a housing (3) an acoustic signature generating means (1) to produce an audible sound when struck. A strike element (2) powered by a kinetic energy generating means (4) causing it to impact the acoustic element (1). A gripping attachment (5) attached to strike (2) pulled away from the acoustic signature generating means (1) increasing tension in the kinetic energy generating means (4). Upon gripping attachment (5) release, increased tension of kinetic energy generating means (4) powers strike element (2) to impact acoustic signature generating element (1), creating distinguishable sound.

Abstract: The sonar device includes a sonar transducer, a noise filter, a microprocessor and an output device. The system warns the user when a hazardous objects is detected or when signals from companions decrease. The portable sonar device can be built into various watersport devices including scuba diving equipment, surfboards and windsurfboards.

Abstract: The sonar device includes a sonar transducer, a noise filter, a microprocessor and an output device. The system warns the user when a hazardous objects is detected or when signals from companions decrease. The portable sonar device can be built into various watersport devices including scuba diving equipment, surfboards and windsurfboards.

Abstract: A portable ultrasound height measuring apparatus, which comprises a display module and a measuring module. Wherein the display module comprises a LCD, a speaker, a transparent plank and a skidproof pad. The measuring module comprises an ultrasound emitter, an ultrasound receiver, a start button, a set fingerboard, and under the set fingerboard a microprocessor. The apparatus measures height of measured person by emitting an ultrasound signal from the emitter and receiving a reflecting signal by the receiver, then displays value on the LCD. The display module and measuring module are jointly connected together to make the display module able to rotate, open, and close in a set range of angle relative to the measuring module.

Abstract: A submersible ice fishing troller system for efficiently trolling a fishing lure or bait beneath an ice surface. The submersible ice fishing troller system includes a submersible unit in communication with a control unit, sonar for bottom and fish detection, a downrigger clip attached to the submersible unit, and a line release attached to the submersible unit. An actuator unit mechanically connected to the line release allows for selective release of the fishing line from the line release after a fish has bitten. The submersible unit automatically travels to the bottom of the ice after the line release has been opened.

Abstract: A portable fish finder device with a housing that defines a wrap cavity for receiving a signal cable that communicates between a depth finder device and a transducer attached to the water craft. A skirt connected to the housing moves between a first position covering the wrap cavity and a second position uncovering the cavity for winding or unwinding the signal cable. The depth finder device pivotally mounts to the housing to move between a storage position with a display screen received in a recess of the housing and an extended position for viewing the display. The cable winds into the wrap cavity for storage and unwinds when the housing is disposed on a portion of a water craft for use of the depth finder with the transducer communicating signals in a body of water for detecting underwater articles.

Abstract: An ultrasonic sonar transducer (10) for facilitating transmission and reception of sonar signals, particularly at high speeds. The sonar transducer includes a transducer element (12) and a transducer housing (14). The housing includes a bottom wall (34) that is continuously curved with no major portion thereof parallel to the bottom face of the element. The bottom wall has a recessed portion (40) that partially forms an acoustic window for facilitating the transmission and reception of acoustic energy, with the acoustic window having a thickness approximately equal to one half or an integer multiple of one half of the wavelength of the acoustic energy. The bottom is preferably bow-shaped to create a positive angle of attack relative to the oncoming water, thereby promoting a laminar flow that reduces turbulence and cavitation and therefore nearly eliminates undesirable attenuation and reflection of transmitted and received energy.

Abstract: An ultrasonic sonar transducer (10) for attachment to a water vessel that more effectively transmits and receives sonar signals even when the water vessel is traveling at high speeds. The sonar transducer includes a transducer element (12) and a transducer housing (14) for housing the transducer element. The transducer housing includes a lower housing section (22) having a bottom wall (34) that is continuously curved with no major portion thereof parallel to the bottom face of the transducer element. The curved bottom is preferably bow-shaped so that the front of the transducer housing is raised relative to the rear to create a positive angle of attack relative to the oncoming water. This pressurizes water flow under the bottom of the transducer housing and promotes a laminar flow. Such a laminar flow reduces turbulence and cavitation and therefore nearly eliminates undesirable attenuation and reflection of transmitted and received energy.

Abstract: An acoustic/video processing stack of a plurality of substantially identical acoustic/video processing stacks is provided for attachment to a processing stack backplane and which together generate a VGA signal for display of a three-dimensional acoustic image. The acoustic/video processing stack includes a two-dimensional array of transducer elements, a companion chip block coupled to and adapted to transceive acoustic signals under a time-division multiplexed format through the transducer elements and to provide a portion of the VGA signal together generated by the plurality of acoustic/video processing stacks and a backing block disposed between the two-dimensional array and companion chip block and adapted to acoustically isolate the two-dimensional transducer array from the companion chip block, said companion chip block and backing block being of a size and diameter substantially the same as the two-dimensional transducer array.

Abstract: An ultrasonic signal is used to link a beacon unit to a tracker unit to provide a tracking and navigation system for firefighters to use in a smoke filled environment at the scene of a fire. The beacon unit transmits an omnidirectional ultrasonic signal. The tracker unit, using a directional ultrasonic receiver provides a display or other indication of the signal strength of the received ultrasonic signal to allow the direction to the beacon unit to be determined. The ultrasonic signal provided by the beacon unit may be pulse modulated to include digitally encoded data that may be used to identify particular individuals, objects, materials, dangers, or exits. In addition, the tracker unit may be provided with a transmitter and the beacon unit provided with a receiver such that audio communication may be established therebetween.

Abstract: An underwater communication method, device, and system that enables bi-directional communication between and among under-water divers. In accordance with the present invention, messages may be transmitted and received between and among the divers in a network and/or between divers and a diving boat, buoy, or other reference point. The present invention also permits one or more divers to receive a homing signal and to move toward the source of that signal using an acquisition and tracking feature and functionality that utilizes a Doppler frequency shift and preferably a compass to determine the distance and direction of the source of the signal. The present invention also enables a diver in distress to broadcast a distress signal (i.e., SOS) that is received by every other diver within a predetermined distance from the distressed diver. The divers receiving the distress signal are then able to locate and rescue the distressed diver using the acquisition and tracking feature and functionality.

Abstract: A route computation apparatus having pedestrian-oriented map information for pedestrian route guidance, a portable route guidance apparatus, and markers located in an installation. A medium translation function is also included for translating input information of a given medium to information of another medium for output depending on current status of a pedestrian, whereby the information of interest is translated into information in a format suitable for the state in which the pedestrian is utilizing the portable apparatus.

Abstract: An underwater imaging system includes a scuba facemask having a viewing portion that defines a user field-of-view. An imager generates image data of an area in an imaging field-of-view. The imager is coupled to the facemask such that the imaging field-of-view at least partially overlaps the user field-of-view. A display mounted in a lower portion of the user field-of-view is coupled to the imager for displaying images to the user based on the image data.

Abstract: An underwater signaling device 10 provides an enclosure 20 having handle 25 and barrel 21 portions. A trigger 40 is pivotally carried by the handle portion, and provides a pivoting spur 50 which extends into the barrel portion. A hammer 30 is sized for travel within the barrel portion. A primary spring 60, carried within a rearward end portion of the barrel is sized to propel the tip of the hammer into a bell 70 carried by a forward portion of the barrel. A primary spring 60, carried within a rearward end portion of the barrel is sized to propel the tip of the hammer into a bell 70 carried by a forward portion of the barrel. A secondary spring 65, carried within a forward end portion of the barrel is sized to urge the hammer out of contact with the bell after the initial impact, thereby preventing the hammer from damping the vibration of the bell. In operation, the trigger is manually activated, urging the hammer rearwardly, thereby compressing the primary spring.

Abstract: A personal underwater communication device which comprises: A display; A memory unit for storing a plurality of preset messages, each message being assigned a common message identification code; Means for assigning a unique identification code to each personal device; Means for selecting one of said preset messages, to be transmitted to a receiving device; Means for selecting one or more receiving devices to which a message is to be transmitted; Means for producing a string encoding said message identification code and the identification code of the transmitting device; Means for modulating said string with at least one ultrasound acoustic modulating frequency, thereby to produce a modulated signal; Means for transmitting said modulated signal in water; Means in each device for receiving transmitted ultrasound acoustic modulated signals; Means for demodulating modulated signals which are received by said device, thereby to produce a demodulated string; Means for decoding a message from said demodulated string

Abstract: A sonar depth sounder device and method for processing echo signals, reflected from objects within a body of water, utilizes a processor, a memory, a display, and a keypad connected to the processor. The receiver receives sonar signals indicative of ambient noise in an underwater environment. The processor receives an electrical signal representative of the ambient noise, and calculates a detection threshold. The detection threshold is calculated by multiplying a scaling factor times the variance of the signal indicative of the ambient noise, and adding that product to the mean of the signal indicative of the ambient noise in the underwater environment. A transmitter then excites a transducer which emits sonar pulses into a body of water, and a receiver receives reflected sonar echo signals. When the intensity of the reflected sonar echo signals is less than the detection threshold, the reflected echo signals are eliminated from processing.

Abstract: A personal object or obstacle detector apparatus with enhanced stereo imaging capability includes a sonar system having dual receivers with field lobes positioned based on psychoacoustic considerations such as interaural intensity difference (IID) and interaural time difference (ITD). Receiver field pattern shapes and directions are selected to match the natural IID and ITD associated with human hearing. In one embodiment, dual receivers are used with a common transmitter while another embodiment utilizes two transmitter/receiver pairs with the transmitter and receiver collocated.

Abstract: A portable safety mechanism housed in a cane, a walking stick or a belt-carried housing. In each of such embodiments, the portable safety mechanism includes a processor, a transmitter, a receiver, and an outside image sensor or scanner, a warning device such as an audible warning device or warning light. The scanner may, for example, sense the shape of a traffic signal or the color of a traffic signal.

Abstract: A buoyant transducer assembly which may be attached to a fishing pole for providing signals indicative of objects, such as fish, within the water. The buoyant transducer assembly includes a sonar transducer supported by a float. The float has a central hub defining a downward opened recess for receiving the transducer and diametrically opposing buoyant cells for supporting the float upon the water. The float is positioned upon the water such that a predetermined portion of the float which has a surface area significantly larger than the surface area of the transducer contacts the water, thereby stabilizing the transducer and maintaining the transducer in a predetermined position relative to the body of water.

Abstract: A buoyant transducer assembly which may be attached to a fishing pole for providing signals indicative of objects, such as fish, within the water. The buoyant transducer assembly includes a sonar transducer supported by a float. The float has a central hub defining a downward opened recess for receiving the transducer and diametrically opposing buoyant cells for supporting the float upon the water. The float is positioned upon the water such that a predetermined portion of the float which has a surface area significantly larger than the surface area of the transducer contacts the water, thereby stabilizing the transducer and maintaining the transducer in a predetermined position relative to the body of water.

Abstract: A personal object or obstacle detector apparatus comprises a continuous transmission frequency modulation (CTFM) ranging system and an audio output device. The CTFM ranging system transmits a frequency-swept pressure wave, receives a reflected frequency-swept pressure wave from at least one object, and forms an audio signal based upon a frequency difference between the frequency-swept pressure wave and the reflected frequency-swept pressure wave the audio signal having an amplitude dependent upon size of the object. The audio output device produces an acoustic pressure wave in dependence upon the audio signal. In a preferred embodiment, the acoustic pressure wave contains separate tones for each of the objects detected, wherein each tone has a pitch dependent upon the distance from the CTFM ranging system to the corresponding object. Another embodiment utilizes a pair of CTFM ranging systems to produce a stereo auditory map of objects and obstacles.

Abstract: A user-driven, active guidance system for guiding visually impaired users through obstacle filled routes of travel. The system includes an obstacle detection system, having an array of ultrasonic sensors, which detects the distance to and location of obstacles and a controller for receiving obstacle data and determining an optimal path around the obstacle so as to return the user back to the original path of travel without losing orientation or direction. The system provides active guidance by exerting physical force upon the user to intuitively direct the user around the obstacle. The system is driven by the user's motion and comprises a cane, as well as the my of ultrasonic sensors and controller supported on a pair of guide wheels.

Abstract: A navigational device (10) for assisting a scuba diver in determining a direction toward and a distance from a dive boat (12) or to a buoy near the shore at which point the dive originated. The navigational device (10) includes a transponder unit (16) carried by a boat (12) and an interrogator unit (34) carried by a diver. The interrogator unit (34) includes at least one transducer (68) positioned for detecting signals from the transponder unit (16). Direction and distance indicators (46,50) are carried on the surface of the interrogator unit (34) for visual indication to the diver. The transponder unit (16) repeatedly pulses an identification signal to be received by the interrogator unit (34). When a valid identification signal is received by the interrogator unit (34), the direction from which the signal was received is determined and displayed. When the distance to the boat (12) is required, a signal is emitted from the interrogator unit (34).

Abstract: A barracuda-repelling sound generation device including a sound generator mechanism for generating a speaker activation signal when electrically energized; a remote speaker mechanism positionable beneath the surface of a body of water for generating a noise irritating to barracudas upon receipt of the speaker activation signal; a speaker cable mechanism for transferring speaker activation signals from the sound generator mechanism to the speaker mechanism; a power supply mechanism for supplying electrical energy for operation; and a power switch mechanism for selectively supplying electrical energy to the sound generator mechanism.

Abstract: A system of sonar platforms designed for use in moderate depth water is disclosed, with each platform having a plurality of transducer modules mounted thereon. Each transducer module has a plurality of sonar transducers mounted in columns. The transducers are electronically grouped in two groups for sensing of reflected signals, to provide a means of bearing calculation by the phase monopulse method. The transducer modules are identical and interchangeable, so that any module can be mounted in any position on any platform. Each platform is hexagonal, with up to six transducer modules mountable on each platform to provide the desired pattern of sonar coverage for the platform. The platforms can be arranged in any desired pattern to provide the desired sonar coverage of a particular body of water.

Abstract: A system for communicating to a fisherman information relating to fish in water in the vicinity of a fishing lure or hook which is connected to a conventional non-electrically conducting fishing line and which includes a float attached to a conventional non-electrically conducting fishing line with the float being located at or below the water surface. The system also includes a sensor housed in the float for detecting a parameter relating to the fish, the sensor being housed in the float. Also housed in the float are an electronic card and a transmitter for wirelessly transmitting the signal. A power source housed in the float provides electrical energy to the sensor and transmitter. The system also includes a receiver for receiving the signal from the transmitter and a display or other output for presenting information relating to the signal to the fisherman.

Abstract: A system for automatically detecting the event of a person or object falling overboard from a vessel into water includes a portable ultrasonic transmitter worn by each person or attached to selected objects on board and designed to be activated upon immersion in water, and an alarm control unit carried by the vessel containing an ultrasonic receiver. When the receiver detects a signal produced by a portable transmitter, it sounds an alarm and displays the vector velocity of the vessel relative to the portable transmitter, allowing rescue operations to be initiated and carried out even in conditions of zero visibility.

Abstract: Gas-operated apparatus (2) for making a noise underwater, comprising a body (4), a diaphragm (6) which extends over the body (4) to define a chamber (8) between the body (4) and the diaphragm (6), a gas inlet nozzle (10) which extends into the chamber (8) and which engages an inner surface (12) of the diaphragm (6), and gas outlet means (14) for enabling gas in the chamber (8) to leave the chamber (8), the diaphragm (6) being made of an elastic material, the diaphragm (6) being such that it has an outer surface (16) which is in contact with a liquid, and the apparatus (2) being such that in use gas under pressure passes through gas inlet nozzle (10) and causes the diaphragm (6) to expand and collapse over a region of the diaphragm (6) that is in contact with the gas inlet nozzle (10) thereby to create noise which is adapted for optimum underwater transmission due to the diaphragm (6) being in contact with the liquid.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for determining the combination of distance and relative direction between two locations in a fluid medium.

Abstract: An acoustic search device comprises an ultrasonic transducer with a plurality of elements for transmitting acoustic signals toward a viewed search area and for receiving echo signals therefrom, a display, an electronic unit and an optical viewing device. The electronic unit controls the transducer and the display which shows a display image of the viewed search area based on the echo signals reflected from the viewed search area. The display image is seen by means of the optical viewing device. The optical viewing device, the display, and the ultrasonic transducer are arranged to form a part of the protective cap of a diver and are situated in a protective cap, substantially in succession in the direction of sight of the diver.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a portable data logging device for logging d concerning room identification and dimensions in a building or facility. The invention includes a microprocessor based portable computer having manual and automated inputs for logging data including a data port for room dimensions. An electronic distance measuring device produces an output indicative of one or more room dimensions in a digital format. An auxiliary processor responsibly coupled to the output of the distance measuring device converts the output to a coded format recognizable by the microprocessor. The data encoded in the coded format is coupled to the microprocessor via a voltage converter for recordation. The microprocessor may be programmed to step through a series of prompts, responses to which are stored in appropriate data locations for use at a later time.

Abstract: A diver navigation system which provides reliable position information to able a diver to locate and when required repair existing underwater devices such as cables, leg moorings and the like. The diver navigation system comprises a synchronous range-range navigation system operating on a repeating timing cycle, which is accurately duplicated in a master transmitter, a slave transmitter and a receiver. Within the master and slave transmitter the timing cycle is subdivided into two equal approximately one second subcycles, the first subcycle being for the master transmitter and the second subcycle being for the slave transmitter. The master transmitter sends out a tone burst signal at the beginning of the first subcycle and the slave transmitter sends out a tone burst signal at the beginning of the second subcycle. Each tone burst signal, in turn, comprises a 34 kilohertz signal followed by a 32 kilohertz signal each of which has a time period of approximately one millisecond.

Abstract: The objects of the present invention are achieved by temporarily suspending sonar beam transducer means at a first underwater location within sonar beam range of said scoured area; scanning a first portion of said scoured area with said sonar beam in a first substantially vertical plane that points in a first azimuth direction, so as to generate signals indicative of the range and bearing of said scanned first portion from said transducer means; and scanning at least a second different portion of said scoured area with said sonar beam in a second different substantially vertical plane that points in a second different azimuth direction, so as to generate signals indicative of the range and bearing of said scanned second portion from said transducer means. In actual practice, scanning by the sonar beam occurs in many different vertical planes and also can be done from different underwater locations.

Abstract: A signalling device with a long audible range is described, which is intended for underwater communication between divers. The device consists of a compact and lightweight horn and a rubber bulb. The horn, which works independently from a diver's supply of breathing air, is filled with water and operated by manually squeezing the rubber bulb.

Abstract: An underwater location system (16) is disclosed having a plurality of locator modules (18), each capable of finding the relative range and bearing of other modules. The modules may be diver mounted, placed on movable objects such as a boat (14) or on fixed positions such as the sea floor (12). Range and bearing to each module of the system is displayed, upon request, on a console (20) which may be hand held or mounted in a diver's instrument console. Each module can interrogate other modules with an acoustic pulse which is answered, after a unique time delay stored in each module, by an acoustic response pulse. Response pulse sources are identified by their arrival in a time detection window set by their unique time delay. Range to each identified transponder source is calculated from a receipt time within each detection window.

Abstract: A dive profile recorder for monitoring conditions encountered by a diver under water includes a plurality of transducers to be carried by a diver for generating electrical signals representative of the conditions encountered by the diver. Encoding circuitry electrically connected to the transducers encodes the electrical signals to form a serial data stream and a transmitter electrically connected to the encoding circuitry transmits the serial data stream through the water. A receiver remote from the diver receives the transmitted serial data stream and decoding circuitry electrically connected to the receiver decodes the serial data stream to electrical signals representative of the conditions encountered by the diver. A display electrically connected to the decoding circuitry receives the electrical signals and displays human-perceptible indicia of the conditions encountered by the diver in response to the received electrical signals.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for generating signals which represent a map that depicts one or more submerged objects within an underwater area; detecting acoustic energy emitted from means carried by a diver within said underwater area, or scanning said area with sonar energy, to develop signals which indicate the location of said diver within said area; and combining said diver location signals with said map representing signals for producing a composite visual display to said diver which shows his location with respect to the location of one or more submerged map objects within said area. A remote station also may be provided at which several of these functions are performed.